If you're interested in playing a vital role in the healthcare industry and ensuring that medical facilities run smoothly, an Associate's in Healthcare Administration could be the perfect stepping stone to a rewarding career. In this program, you'll learn about things like medical terminology, healthcare laws, and how to keep things running smoothly in a healthcare setting. It's a great starting point if you're interested in working behind the scenes in healthcare but don't want to become a doctor or nurse.

As you begin researching healthcare administration programs, you'll quickly discover there are a variety of options available both online and through local community colleges near you.

At Dreambound, we aim to provide objective information that will help you come to a decision. In this post, here's what we'll cover:

• Online vs on-campus healthcare administration Associate's programs
• What you can do with a Healthcare Administration degree
• Is an Associate's in Healthcare Administration worth it
• Associate of Science (AS) vs Associate of Arts (AA) for Healthcare Administration

Online vs on-campus healthcare administration Associate's programs

Online programs

An increasing number of accredited colleges are offering fully online Associate's in Healthcare Administration, making it very feasible to earn this degree while balancing work or family commitments.

Here are some pros of the online format:

• Flexibility: Login and complete coursework on your schedule, as long as you meet deadlines. A lot of people are unavailable during class times offered by the closest in-person school to them, so this provides another option
• Accelerated: Online programs are often accelerated. If you're trying to get your degree as fast as possible, online degrees are likely the way to go
• Subspecialties: Some online Associate's in Healthcare Administration programs have subspecialties, if you have a specific interest. For example, we've seen Associate's in Healthcare Administration programs with subfields in medical billing and coding, and more. In-person Associate's in Healthcare Administration programs may not have these
• Variety & shopping: Many online colleges offer an Associate's in Healthcare Administration now. You can choose between them and explore programs from colleges across the country without relocating
• Many are designed for adults: Since adults require more flexibility than recent high school graduates looking for the 2-year college experience, many online Associate's programs are designed for adults. That usually means more flexibility and that the college takes more credit transfers if you've done some education in the past

While curriculum and graduation requirements align with on-campus versions, the online experience does involve more self-directed learning via recorded lectures, virtual labs, discussion forums, and independent studies.

A few examples of online Associate's in Healthcare Administration programs:

Purdue University Global

• Length: 90 credits (2 years if you do 5 classes a semester)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports annual average cost of -$4,247
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $34,767 median earnings.

Southern New Hampshire University

• Length: Minimum of 2 years to complete, but can be reduced if you transfer college credits
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports average cost of $22,873/year
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $53,611/year median earnings

In-Person or Hybrid Healthcare Administration Associate's Programs

The traditional on-campus route is a good fit for those who want a more conventional college experience with face-to-face classes, campus facilities and resources, and close interaction with professors and classmates.

Location is crucial, as you'll be attending classes in person. Research nearby community colleges or technical schools that provide affordable Associate's programs. The average tuition for Healthcare Administration Associate's programs differs based on whether the institution is a public in-state school or a private college. Public, in-state schools typically charge between $3,000 and $8,000 per year, while private colleges usually cost between $15,000 and $30,000 annually. These costs can fluctuate based on factors such as the college's reputation, location, and other related expenses.

Consider the following advantages:

• Classes have set schedules and regular meetings each week. This can be helpful if you prefer face-to-face learning over online classes.
• You get hands-on teaching, practical labs, and chances to study in the field.
• There are extra activities you can join. Your college probably works with local healthcare places where you could get internships or help out in the community.
• You can use the campus libraries and student services. There are lots of resources available to help you out.

A few examples of well-regarded local healthcare administration Associate's programs:

Miami Dade College

• Length: 60 credits (2-year program)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports average annual cost of $3,732
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $39,169

Lone Star College

• Length: 60 credits (2-year program)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports average annual cost of $8,654
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports median earnings of $41,926

How to Choose: Online vs Local

To pick between an online or local healthcare administration Associate's program, consider factors like:

• Learning Style: Online requires strong self-motivation; on-campus is ideal for face-to-face learners
• Cost: Costs can vary. Online allows you to shop between options for the cheapest, but there may be an affordable in-person program near you
• Schedule: Online is flexible, while on-campus requires set class times each term
• Career Goals : An on-campus program may provide more hands-on training and networking opportunities related to your specific interests

How to Choose: AA vs AS

When considering an Associate's degree in healthcare administration, one of the main decisions is whether to pursue an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or an Associate of Science (A.S.). Here are some key differences between the two:

Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Healthcare Administration

• Typically has more general education requirements like communications, humanities, and social science courses
• Leaves more room for electives outside of the healthcare administration major
• Curriculum focuses more on the administrative, operational, and human relations side of healthcare

An A.A. provides a broad educational foundation which can be good preparation for roles in healthcare management, patient services, community health organizations and transferring to bachelor's programs.

Associate of Science (A.S.) in Healthcare Administration

• Has more extensive requirements in natural sciences, healthcare systems, and technical courses
• Curriculum emphasizes the scientific and quantitative aspects of healthcare through increased lab work, medical terminology, coding and billing
• Possible concentrations include health informatics, medical office administration, and healthcare reimbursement

Admissions requirements, curriculum, and costs are generally similar for A.A. or A.S. healthcare administration programs at the same institution. The main differentiator is the blend of general education versus technical and scientific courses.

In terms of job prospects, both A.A. and A.S. Degrees can qualify you for many of the same entry-level roles in healthcare administration. Employers will likely look more at your skills, experience, and professional certifications. However, an A.S. may provide a stronger foundation if you plan to specialize or advance in certain areas, like health information management, down the line.

What Can You Do With a Healthcare Administration Associate's?

Graduates of Associate's in Healthcare Administration programs often join healthcare facilities such as:

• Hospitals and clinics (patient service representative, medical office assistant)
• Physician practices (practice manager, medical biller)
• Long-term care facilities (administrative assistant, admissions coordinator)
• Health insurance companies (claims processor, customer service rep)
• Public health organizations (program assistant, outreach coordinator)

Many of the higher-level administrative roles in healthcare (e.g., health services manager, healthcare executive) require a bachelor's or master's degree. Consider this if your long-term goal is to advance into leadership positions.

There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like medical coding, health information management, or medical office technology with additional training or certifications.

Whatever healthcare admin job you pursue, it's extremely important to develop relevant skills and gain practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. Hands-on exposure to healthcare settings is crucial for landing your first job after graduation.

During Your Healthcare Administration Program

In your healthcare administration coursework, you'll develop a foundational understanding of the healthcare system, medical terminology, administrative procedures, and the legal and ethical considerations in healthcare delivery.

Common required courses include:

• Introduction to Healthcare Administration
• Medical Terminology
• Healthcare Laws and Ethics
• Healthcare Finance and Reimbursement
• Healthcare Information Systems
• Medical Office Management
• Healthcare Quality Management

Some programs offer concentrations or elective courses in areas like medical coding, health informatics, or practice management to help you start specializing.

Related Alternative Programs

If your interests lie in other aspects of healthcare, similar Associate's degree options include:

• Health Information Technology
• Medical Office Administration
• Medical Billing and Coding
• Healthcare Reimbursement
• Medical Assisting

While healthcare administration deals with business and operations, other programs focus more on the medical, technological, or coding parts of running healthcare facilities.

No matter which way you go, learning about healthcare administration sets you up well for a satisfying job helping with healthcare and making patients better. As you get more experience and learn more, you can take on bigger jobs with more responsibility and make a bigger difference.